Sometimes the best parts of a large, formal gathering are those moments a picture-taker catches a truly relaxed, “regular” moment amongst the pomp and circumstance and celebration. Not the wild, wonderful dancing or the hilarious karaoke singing (although these are usually treasures as well), but the moments of quiet, of peace, of small batches of communing amongst the guests.
The Processional and wedding are lovely and solemn (perhaps with a few giggles), the reception runs its course with The Entrance, a feast, a cake, the special dances, possibly garter and flower throwing, and then we settle in for the rest of the party. Dancing, laughter, hugs, love, and lots of photos. One of my favorite moments of a surprise anniversary party was finding disposable cameras sitting on each table. The guests were encouraged to use them to take pictures and then leave them for the happy anniversary couple to develop. As it was my sister and brother-in-law’s party – my sister had no clue she was coming for her own party – I took mine up to catch the look on her face when she realized she was not there for a baby shower as she’d been told. It was awesome, of course. Later my brother-in-law thanked me as only one camera had caught those moments. I was so glad I had thought of it!
There are the sore-feet mini-rest chats, catch-up chats, cluster chats, and the smokers who gather outside and for smoke-chats. These show the “I’m so happy we are all together, just hanging out” moments. Treasured in our hearts through photos. Because the people who are the focus of the party or the preppers who are working so hard seldom get to see any of these wonderful moments at their party. So the photos complete their happy day.
Don’t think the usual dances, or expensive venue, or fancy food/cake, or huge gathering – or whatever a wedding/big party means to you – are the real treasures. It’s the new vows taken, the old vows celebrated, the celebration of a life or an achievement; it’s the love shared by all. Whether there are hurting feet, a-little-too-snug clothes, children running around using their outdoor voices (indoors – and laughing and bumping into people), or the need to keep making sure it’s all going well – it’s the WHOLE that matters. The whole package. Because without our loved ones, we are alone. We invite others to celebrate with us, to share our joy, our lives. And it’s okay to sit and relax a little during the process. At parties and in life in general. Relax. Take your shoes off. Smile. And have a good time catching up with those loved ones.
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